Spoilage reducing composition for bird feeders

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a method, composition and kit for preventing spoilage of feed in a bird feeder by use of a spoilage reducing composition that comprises an effective amount of a moisture absorbing material, an optional support material, and an optional functional additive that are formed into a shaped body that is combined with an bird feeder, bird feed and/or bird seed to effectively absorb water and water vapor thereby reducing spoilage of feed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a method, composition and kit forpreventing spoilage of feed in a bird feeder by use of a spoilagereducing composition that comprises an effective amount of a moistureabsorbing material, an optional support material, and an optionalfunctional additive. The present invention also relates to methods andkits employing spoilage reducing compositions employed in the form of ashaped body, optionally a plurality of shaped bodies, optionallypackaged in an outer packaging material and combined with a bird feeder,bird feed and/or plurality of bird seed to effectively absorb water andwater vapor thereby reducing spoilage of feed in a bird feeder. Thepresent invention also relates to a kit for preventing spoilage of birdfeed with instructions for combining the spoilage reducing compositionswith bird feeders, bird feed and/or a plurality of bird seed.

2. Background of the Related Art

Many different types and designs of bird feeders have been developed.Examples of several designs of bird feeders include those described byKilham, U.S. Pat. No. 3,568,641; Leal, U.S. Pat. No. 407,863; Des, U.S.Pat. No. 231,369; Clarke, U.S. Pat. No. 4,259,927; McNeely, U.S. Pat.No. 444,598; Kuelbs, U.S. Pat. No. 471,327; Coffer, U.S. Pat. No.4,940,019; Washam, U.S. Pat. No. 5,410,986; and Bloedorn, U.S. Pat. No.5,924,381, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

These feeders however are prone to water and moisture intrusion,commonly due to rain, leaks, condensation and/or ambient humidityresulting from environmental exposure. Spoiling of feed and thegeneration of mold due to moisture and/or humidity in an animal feederis a serious problem, and is particularly common to many bird feedersowing to the nature of the bird seed employed combined with environmentexposure. Spoiled feed fusing to the feeder is also a common problem forthe bird hobbyist, requiring frequent changing of the feed. Further,moisture-related feed spoilage can cause additional problems, includingbird rejection of the feed, birds ingesting mold toxins from the spoiledfeed, sprouting of bird seed, and feed fusing to the feeder causingcleaning problems.

Harmful mold toxins generated by spoilage are a critical problemaffecting the health of the wild birds. Some of the most toxic compoundson earth are created by molds, for example, but not limited tomycotoxins. Even trace amounts of these mycotoxins can cause harmful orlethal effects to birds. One example is Aflatoxin, which is aparticularly harmful by-product of Aspergillus parasititicus mold thatcommonly grows on grain. Amounts of this toxin as low as 0.1 microgramscan be lethal to many small birds. The more that seeds are exposed tomoisture, the greater potential for Aflatoxin production.

Spoiled feed fusing to the feeder is a common problem for the birdhobbyist, prompting cleaning of the feeder and replacement of fouledfeed. Moisture and spoilage is particularly a problem at the bottom, lowor no-flow zones, dead-end areas, and areas within the feeder close toopenings and/or exposed directly to the environment. High quality hulledand “no mess” feed are especially susceptible to spoiling, and commonlycause blocked feeder holes, agglomeration of seed, and subsequent lossof expensive seed. It is necessary for the feeder operator to frequentlyclean the feeder by removing feeder contents and washing the feeder dueto these problems. Often a cleaning disinfectant needs to be used iffood spoilage has occurred in order to remove residual molds and moldtoxins and other decay byproducts.

Further, even if mold spoilage does not occur, humidity can accelerateaging of the seed, rancidity, and reduction in the quality of the seed,all resulting in potential bird rejection of the seed.

Many bird feeders have been designed to make it easier to clean thefeeder after the feed has spoiled, but this is a belated solution.Cleaning a bird feeder that has moldy or caked-on seed is a messy andtime-consuming task. Microbial inhibitors can be added to the seed andfeeder, but this approach creates health risk issues for the birds, asmany common microbial inhibitors are effective only at levels that aretoxic to animals and birds when ingested.

What is needed is preventative method employing a spoilage reducingcomposition that prevents spoilage of feed in a bird feeder.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a spoilage preventing method, spoilagereducing composition and kit for eliminating the spoilage and moldingproblems of feed associated with outdoor bird feeders.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method employing a spoilagereducing composition that is combined with a bird feeder, bird feedand/or a plurality of seed. The spoilage reducing compositions of thepresent invention comprise a moisture absorbing material, optionally, asupport material, optionally a functional additive, and optionallyfurther adjuncts.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method whereby a spoilagereducing composition is used as an additive to a bird feeder containingbird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method whereby a spoilagereducing composition is combined with bird feed and added to a birdfeeder.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method whereby a spoilagereducing composition is combined with a bird feeder, which is then usedfor dispensing bird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method whereby a spoilagereducing composition is combined with both bird feed and a bird feeder.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducingcomposition comprises an effective amount of moisture absorbingmaterial.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducingcomposition comprises an effective amount of moisture absorbing materialand a support material.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducingcomposition comprises an effective amount of moisture absorbing materialand a functional additive.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducingcomposition comprises an effective amount of moisture absorbingmaterial, a support material, and a functional additive.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises a silica gel.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises silica in theform of silicon dioxide and/or hydrated silicon dioxide.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises silica selectedfrom the group consisting of silica gel, precipitated silica, amorphoussilica, colloidal silica, pyrogenic silica, fumed silica, silicaaerogel, and mixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises an alumina,aluminum oxide and/or hydrated aluminum oxide.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises an aluminaselected from the group consisting of amorphous alumina, activatedalumina, activated bauxite, gibbsite, bauxite, boehmite, pseudoboehmite,and mixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises an an absorbentmineral selected from the group consisting of natural zeolite, syntheticzeolite, perlite, expanded perlite, volcanic ash, pumice, tobermite,tuft, attapulgite, sepiolite, montmorillonite, smectite, bentonite,kaolinite, halloysite, hectorite, dicalcium silicate, clay, activatedclay, Fuller's earth, vermicullite, gypsum, shale, bassanite,diatomaceous earth, diatomite, and mixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises a nanomaterialselected from the group consisting of silica, hydrated silica, alumina,hydrated alumina, titania, and mixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises a materialcapable of absorbing at least 30 percent by weight of water in the formof liquid water, water vapor, and combinations thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the support material of thespoilage reducing composition is selected from the group consisting ofplaster of paris, paper, cellulosic webs, polymeric fibrous webs, glass,plastic, wood, metal, minerals, ceramic, wood chips, alfalfa, bark,straw, synthetic foams, recycled materials, grain, seed, sand,agricultural by-products, corn cobs, nut shells, activated carbon,absorbent polymers, polyacrylamide, modified starch, modified cellulose,and mixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the functional additive of thespoilage reducing composition is selected from the group consisting ofmoisture indicating agents, anti-microbial agents, anti-molding agents,colorants, odor absorbers, feed spoilage indicators, and mixturesthereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducingcomposition occurs in packets or porous containers to be placed in thebird feeder.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducingcomposition comprises a shaped body, wherein said shaped body comprisesa form selected from the group consisting of a powder, granule, crystal,solid, gel, foam, disk, cube, cylinder, rod, ovoid, torus, sphere,donut, pyramid, prism, and combinations thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducingcomposition comprises a shaped body, wherein said shaped body is of asize equal to or smaller than the size of said feed.

In the spoilage reducing compositions of the present invention, themoisture absorbing material serves in the capacity to absorb liquidwater and/or water vapor, to reduce free moisture and humidity, thusprolonging feed freshness and reducing feed spoilage in outdoor animalfeeders, including bird feeders. The present invention, in itsembodiments as a spoilage reducing composition, method and kit, has theadded advantage of improving the health of the feeding animals due toreduction of mold toxins in the feed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a spoilage reducingcomposition containing a moisture absorbing material is used as anadditive in a bird feeder. The invention further provides for theaddition of a spoilage reducing composition to a bird feeder a) when thefeeder is empty before adding feed (for example at the bottom of thefeeder), b) simultaneously as the feed is being added to the feeder(blended with or added with the feed during addition to the feeder),and/or c) after the feed has added to the feeder (for example, on top ofthe feed), and any combinations of the thereof. The spoilage reducingcompositions of the present invention are effective when used at the topand/or bottom of the feeder, and also when combined with the feed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a spoilage reducingcomposition comprises an effective amount of moisture absorbingmaterial.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a spoilage reducingcomposition comprises an effective amount of moisture absorbing materialand a support material.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a spoilage reducingcomposition comprises an effective amount of moisture absorbing materialand a functional additive.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a spoilage reducingcomposition comprises an effective amount of moisture absorbingmaterial, a support material, and a functional additive.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition is comprised selected fromthe group of materials commonly referred to as absorbents.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition is comprised selected fromthe group of materials commonly referred to as desiccants.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition is comprised ofwater-binding compounds.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition is composed of particlesbetween 1 mm and 2 mm.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition is composed of particlesbetween 2 mm and 8 mm.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition is composed of particlesbetween 1 mm and 8 mm.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition is composed of particlesbetween 0.001 mm and 100 mm.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises a silica gel.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises silica in theform of silicon dioxide and/or hydrated silicon dioxide.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises silica selectedfrom the group consisting of silica gel, precipitated silica, amorphoussilica, colloidal silica, pyrogenic silica, fumed silica, silicaaerogel, and mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises an alumina,aluminum oxide and/or hydrated aluminum oxide.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises an aluminaselected from the group consisting of amorphous alumina, activatedalumina, activated bauxite, gibbsite, bauxite, boehmite, pseudoboehmite,and mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises an an absorbentmineral selected from the group consisting of natural zeolite, syntheticzeolite, perlite, expanded perlite, volcanic ash, pumice, tobermite,tuft, attapulgite, sepiolite, montmorillonite, smectite, bentonite,kaolinite, halloysite, hectorite, dicalcium silicate, clay, activatedclay, Fuller's earth, vermicullite, gypsum, shale, bassanite,diatomaceous earth, diatomite, and mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises a nanomaterialselected from the group consisting of silica, hydrated silica, alumina,hydrated alumina, titania, and mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the moisture absorbingmaterial of the spoilage reducing composition comprises a materialcapable of absorbing at least 30 percent by weight of water in the formof liquid water, water vapor, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the support material of thespoilage reducing composition is selected from the group consisting ofplaster of paris, paper, cellulosic webs, polymeric fibrous webs, glass,plastic, wood, metal, minerals, ceramic, wood chips, alfalfa, bark,straw, synthetic foams, recycled materials, grain, seed, sand,agricultural by-products, corn cobs, nut shells, activated carbon,absorbent polymers, polyacrylamide, modified starch, modified cellulose,and mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the functional additive ofthe spoilage reducing composition is selected from the group consistingof moisture indicating agents, anti-microbial agents, anti-moldingagents, colorants, odor absorbers, feed spoilage indicators, andmixtures thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the spoilage reducingcomposition occurs in packets or porous containers to be placed in thebird feeder.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the spoilage reducingcomposition comprises a shaped body, wherein said shaped body comprisesa form selected from the group consisting of a powder, granule, crystal,solid, gel, foam, disk, cube, cylinder, rod, ovoid, torus, sphere,donut, pyramid, prism, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the spoilage reducingcomposition comprises a shaped body of a size equal to or smaller thanthe size of said feed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the spoilage reducingcomposition is in the form of a plurality of shaped bodies.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the spoilage reducingcomposition comprises a shaped body of a size between 0.001 millimetersto 1 meter.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the functional additive ofthe spoilage reducing composition is selected from the group consistingof moisture indicating agents, anti-microbial agents, anti-moldingagents, colorants, odor absorbers, feed spoilage indicators, andmixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit for preventingspoilage of bird feed in a bird feeder.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit comprising i) aspoilage reducing composition comprising an effective amount of moistureabsorbing material and ii) instructions for combining the spoilagereducing composition with bird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit comprising: (i) aspoilage reducing composition comprising: (a) an effective amount of amoisture absorbing material; and (b) a support material; and (ii)instructions for combining the spoilage reducing composition with birdfeed.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit comprising: (i) aspoilage reducing composition comprising: (a) an effective amount of amoisture absorbing material; and (b) a functional additive; and (ii)instructions for combining the spoilage reducing composition with birdfeed.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit comprising: (i) aspoilage reducing composition comprising: (a) an effective amount of amoisture absorbing material; (b) a support material; and (c) afunctional additive; and (ii) instructions for combining the spoilagereducing composition with bird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit comprising: (i) aspoilage reducing composition comprising an effective amount of amoisture absorbing material; (ii) feed; and (iii) instructions forcombining the spoilage reducing composition with bird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit comprising: (i) aspoilage reducing composition comprising: (a) an effective amount of amoisture absorbing material; and (b) a support material; (ii) feed; and(iii) instructions for combining the spoilage reducing composition withbird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit comprising: (i) aspoilage reducing composition comprising: (a) an effective amount of amoisture absorbing material; and (b) a functional additive; (ii) feed;and (iii) instructions for combining the spoilage reducing compositionwith bird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit comprising: (i) aspoilage reducing composition comprising: (a) an effective amount of amoisture absorbing material; (b) a support material; and (c) afunctional additive; (ii) feed; and (iii) instructions for combining thespoilage reducing composition with bird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a kit for preventingspoilage of bird feed in a bird feeder, wherein the feed comprises aplurality of seed.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbing material of thespoilage reducing composition comprises a silica gel.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbing material of thespoilage reducing composition comprises silica in the form of silicondioxide and/or hydrated silicon dioxide.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbing material of thespoilage reducing composition comprises silica selected from the groupconsisting of silica gel, precipitated silica, amorphous silica,colloidal silica, pyrogenic silica, fumed silica, silica aerogel, andmixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbing material of thespoilage reducing composition comprises an alumina, aluminum oxideand/or hydrated aluminum oxide.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbing material of thespoilage reducing composition comprises an alumina selected from thegroup consisting of amorphous alumina, activated alumina, activatedbauxite, gibbsite, bauxite, boehmite, pseudoboehmite, and mixturesthereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbing material of thespoilage reducing composition comprises an an absorbent mineral selectedfrom the group consisting of natural zeolite, synthetic zeolite,perlite, expanded perlite, volcanic ash, pumice, tobermite, tuft,attapulgite, sepiolite, montmorillonite, smectite, bentonite, kaolinite,halloysite, hectorite, dicalcium silicate, clay, activated clay,Fuller's earth, vermicullite, gypsum, shale, bassanite, diatomaceousearth, diatomite, and mixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbing material of thespoilage reducing composition comprises a nanomaterial selected from thegroup consisting of silica, hydrated silica, alumina, hydrated alumina,titania, and mixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbing material of thespoilage reducing composition comprises a material capable of absorbingat least 30 percent by weight of water in the form of liquid water,water vapor, and combinations thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the support material of the spoilagereducing composition is selected from the group consisting of plaster ofparis, paper, cellulosic webs, polymeric fibrous webs, glass, plastic,wood, metal, minerals, ceramic, wood chips, alfalfa, bark, straw,synthetic foams, recycled materials, grain, seed, sand, agriculturalby-products, corn cobs, nut shells, activated carbon, absorbentpolymers, polyacrylamide, modified starch, modified cellulose, andmixtures thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the functional additive of the spoilagereducing composition is selected from the group consisting of moistureindicating agents, anti-microbial agents, anti-molding agents,colorants, odor absorbers, feed spoilage indicators, and mixturesthereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducing compositionoccurs in packets or porous containers to be placed in the bird feeder.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducing compositionoccurs in porous or semi-porous containers in the shape of a rod, tube,cylinder, cube, prism pyramid, disk, donut, ovoid, and combinationsthereof, to be placed in the feeder along with the feed.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducing compositioncomprises a shaped body, wherein said shaped body comprises a formselected from the group consisting of a powder, granule, crystal, solid,gel, foam, disk, cube, cylinder, rod, ovoid, torus, sphere, donut,pyramid, prism, and combinations thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the spoilage reducing compositioncomprises a shaped body, wherein said shaped body is of a size equal toor smaller than the size of said feed.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the outer packaging material contains aspoilage reducing composition.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the outer packaging material contains aspoilage reducing composition, and the outer packaging materialcomprises a reversibly sealable packaging means, wherein said packagingmeans is not permeable to water, water vapor, and combinations thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the outer packaging material contains aspoilage reducing composition and the outer packaging material comprisesa water-permeable packaging means, wherein said packaging means ispermeable to water, water vapor, and combinations thereof.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the outer packaging material contains aspoilage reducing composition, and the outer packaging materialcomprises a water-permeable packaging means, wherein said packagingmeans is permeable to water, water vapor, and combinations thereof, andthe spoilage reducing composition is incorporated as part of the feeder.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the moisture absorbing material of thespoilage reducing composition comprises silica selected from the groupconsisting of silica gel, precipitated silica, amorphous silica,colloidal silica, pyrogenic silica, fumed silica, silica aerogel, andmixtures thereof, and said the silica comprises a shaped body, whereinsaid shaped body is of a size between 0.001 millimeters to about 1meter.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the instructions comprise the step ofadding said spoilage reducing composition to said feeder in an effectiveamount prior to addition of said bird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the instructions comprise the step ofadding said spoilage reducing composition simultaneously with said birdfeed to said feeder.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the instructions comprise the step ofadding said spoiling reducing composition to said feeder in an effectiveamount following addition of said bird feed.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the instructions comprise the step ofmixing said spoilage reducing composition with bird feed prior toaddition to the bird feeder.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the instructions comprise anycombination of the steps selected from the group consisting of (1)adding said spoilage reducing composition to said feeder in an effectiveamount prior to addition of said bird feed, (2) adding said spoilagereducing composition simultaneously with said bird feed to said feeder,(3) adding said spoiling reducing composition to said feeder in aneffective amount following addition of said bird feed, (4), mixing saidspoilage reducing composition with bird feed prior to addition to birdfeed.

One embodiment of the present invention is a kit for preventing spoilageof feed in a bird feeder wherein the effective amount of the spoilagereducing composition is between about 0.05 weight percent to 50 weightpercent of the weight of the bird feed present in the feeder.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before describing the present invention in detail, it is to beunderstood that this invention is not limited to particularlyexemplified formulas or ingredients as such may, of course, vary. It isalso to be understood that the terminology used herein is for thepurpose of describing particular embodiments of the invention only, andis not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any manner.

All publications, patents and patent applications cited herein, whethersupra or infra, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entiretyto the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patentapplication was specifically and individually indicated to beincorporated by reference.

It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referentsunless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example,reference to a “indicating agent” includes two or more such agents.

Bird Feed

Bird feed compositions can include any mixture of materials commonlyingested by wild, domestic, or agricultural birds. Those practiced inthe art recognize that these generally include seeds, grains, nuts,legumes and/or fruit, but can also include plant vegetative matter,leaves, flowers, salts, lard, fat, oils, suet, minerals and mixturesthereof. Feed can include agglomerated particles containing mixtures offeed materials. Feed can include hulled and/or unhulled seeds, grains,nuts, or legumes. Feed can also include whole and/or broken pieces ofseeds, grains, nuts, legumes, and/or fruit.

Bird Feeder

One of numerous devices designed to dispense or display bird feed forthe purpose of giving access of the feed to birds. Examples of which aretube feeders, hopper feeders, silo feeders, bin feeders, and trayfeeders. These have in common the ability to hold feed, with some kindof opening that allows birds to have access to the feed.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which the invention pertains. Although a number of methodsand materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can beused in the practice of the present invention, the preferred materialsand methods are described herein.

Spoilage Reducing Compositions

The spoilage reducing compositions of the present invention comprise:(a) an effective amount of a moisture absorbing material; (b)optionally, a support material; (c) optionally, a functional additive;and (d) optional adjuncts.

In one embodiment of the invention, the spoilage reducing compositionsare in the form of granules having a mean particle size of between 1 mmand 8 mm. In another embodiment of the present invention, the meanparticle size of the granules is in the range of approximately 2 mm to 8mm. In another embodiment of the present invention, the mean particlesize of the granules is in the range of approximately 1 mm to 2 mm. Thissize is small enough to distribute well in the feed and to flow throughmost bird feeders, but large enough that the bird can discriminate theparticles as separate from the feed and avoid ingesting them. Particlesize of the inventive composition can actually be any size and anyparticle size distribution which can be accommodated by the feeder,including sizes wherein the mean particle size is between about 1 micronand about 10 cm.

One embodiment of the spoilage reducing composition is agglomeratedparticles or pellets containing a mixture of a) moisture absorbingmaterial, b) optionally, support material, c) optionally, functionaladditives, and d) optionally, feed components.

One embodiment of the spoilage reducing composition is a mixture ofmaterials adhered together into a shape with binding agents, consistingof a) moisture absorbing material, b) optionally, support material, c)optionally, functional additives, and d) optionally, feed components.

The spoilage reducing compositions may also be in shaped form, such as ageometric shape, which may be placed into the feeder to absorb moisture.The spoilage reducing compositions may be formed as large single shapedbody, or could be in the form of a plurality of smaller shaped bodies,for example powdered or granular forms, or pressed together to formcomplex shaped bodies, such as, for example, in the shape of a cylinder.If necessary, an optional binding agent could be used to bridgeparticles and form a physically enduring shape. The size of the shapedbody can be whatever size is accommodated by the feeder, including sizesbetween 0.001 millimeter to 1 meter.

An effective amount of the spoilage reducing composition is that amountof material, or greater, that is needed to have any noticeable effect onthe reduction of spoiling in a bird feeder. Testing shows that even 2weight percent of the spoilage reducing composition can have significanteffects on the reduction of spoilage, and it is anticipated that theeffective level is much less than that amount.

Moisture Absorbing Material

Suitable moisture absorbing materials include those materials having theability to absorb at least about 30% by weight in liquid water and/orwater vapor. That is to say, 30 grams of liquid water and/or water vaporper 100 grams of the moisture absorbing material prior to absorbing saidwater. Various materials may be used as long as they have the ability tostrongly sequester liquid water or water vapor.

In one class of suitable moisture absorbing material, the ability tosequester water or water vapor is due to the extremely small pore sizesin the structure of the materials. The materials can have average poresizes in the range from about 5 angstroms to about 1000 angstroms. Thematerials may also have average pore sizes in the range from 50 to about250 angstroms.

In another class of moisture absorbing material, the ability tosequester water or water vapor is due to the ability of the chemicalstructure to swell and accommodate water into its structure.

The moisture absorbing material can be inorganic absorbent materialssuch as sepiolite, natural zeolite, synthetic zeolite, shale, pumice,tuff, tobermite, attapulgite, bentonite, kaolinite, halloysite,montmorillonite, smectite, hectorite, dicalcium silicate, clay,activated clay, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, diatomite, Fuller'searth, fossilized plant materials, perlite, expanded perlite, volcanicash, plaster of paris (bassanite), gypsum, shale, dicalcium silicate,similar minerals, and mixtures thereof.

The moisture absorbing material can be silica-based absorbent such assilica gel, precipitated silica, amorphous silica, colloidal silica,pyrogenic silica, fumed silica, silica aerogel, and mixtures thereof.The moisture absorbing material can be an alumina-based absorbent suchas amorphous alumina, activated alumina, activated bauxite, gibbsite,bauxite, boehmite, pseudoboehmite, and mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment of the invention, the moisture absorbing material issilica gel. Silica gel is formed by reaction of acid and sodiumsilicate, followed by aging and drying. This material is also referredto as amorphous silica, silica acid or hydrated silica. As will beappreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art, typical silica gelmaterial of “Type C” has a bulk density of 400-600 g/l, an average poresize in the range of 50-250 angstroms and an absorption capacity ofapproximately 50%-100%. However, other types of silica gel can also beused which have average bulk densities between 10-2000 g/L and averagepore sizes between 5-1000 angstroms. Ultra small pore size “Type A” and“Type B” silica gels can be used as well as the mesoporous “Type MA” and“Type MB” materials. These silica materials are usually white tosemi-translucent and may be either powdered, granular or bead shaped.

In another embodiment of the invention, the absorbent silica material isa hydrophilic silica gel, precipitated silica, colloidal silica,pyrogenic silica, fumed silica, or silica aerogel. Hydrophobic silicamaterials have the ability to improve flowability and reduce caking, butare not recommended as moisture absorbing materials.

The moisture absorbing material may also be in granular or powdered formwhich is placed in porous packets or containers to be placed in the birdfeeder to absorb moisture.

Support Material

Suitable support materials include, but are not limited to, organicmaterials such as plaster of paris, paper, cellulosic webs, polymericfibrous webs, glass, plastic, wood, metal, minerals, ceramic, woodchips, alfalfa, bark, straw, sand, grain hulls, synthetic foams, corncobs, nut chells, activated carbon, grain, seed, recycled materials, andpelletized absorbing litter materials. Further examples of suitablesupport materials include, but are not limited to, absorbent polymerssuch as polyacrylamide, modified starch, modified cellulose and thelike. The support material generally serves, when employed in theinventive compositions, as a matrix to hold and/or support the moistureabsorbing materials and other functional materials. The support materialmay be present in any desirable weight percent with respect to thespoilage reducing composition.

Functional Materials

Functional materials that may further be combined with the presentinventive compositions include anti-microbial agents, anti-moldingagents, moisture indicating agents, coloring agents and binding agents.Additional functional materials include, but are not limited to odorabsorbers, feed spoilage indicators, and the like. The functionalmaterials may be present in any desirable weight percent with respect tothe spoilage reducing composition. In general, the functional materialsare generally employed at an effective level, such level beingsufficient with respect to the spoilage reducing composition, toadequately perform their function.

Anti-Microbial Agent

As indicated above, the spoilage reducing compositions of the presentinvention can further include an anti-microbial and/or an anti-moldingagent. Numerous anti-microbial and anti-molding agents are available foruse (e.g. Myacide, boric acid, and Dowcil™).

Moisture Indicating Agents

Moisture indicating agents include those materials that changeappearance or color when humid, wet, or exposed to moisture. Theseagents can be added to the spoilage reducing composition of the presentinvention to indicate when moisture has been absorbed, thereby acting asa visual or apparent indicator of the moisture absorbing process. Themoisture indicating agents may also serve as an indicator to promptreplacing of the spoilage reducing composition in use. Suitable moistureabsorbing materials include, but are not limited to, cobalt chloride andphenolphthalein, and other know materials common to the art which changecolor in the presence of moisture.

Coloring Agent

A coloring agent may also be added to enhance the aesthetic nature ofthe spoilage reducing composition, and to make it easier to see thedistribution of the inventive composition, and/or to hide any negativediscoloration of the inventive composition during use. Coloring agentsinclude, but are not limited to dyes, pigments, and polymeric colorants.In general, suitable coloring agents include those that do notsubstantially eliminate the moisture absorbing nature of the spoilagereducing composition of the present invention. Non-limited examples ofdyes include acid blue 9 dye, methylene blue, and wool violet. Examplesof pigment are hematite, Cu-phthalocyanine or Ultramarine blue. Examplesof polymeric colorants are various products under the Liquitint™ nameproduced by Milliken Chemical.

Binding Agent

Binding agents include, but are not limited to, any class of polymericmaterials, such as natural gums, modified gums, natural starches,modified starches, modified cellulose, acrylic polymers, polyvinylalcohols, silicates, and mixtures thereof. Binding agents also include,but are not limited to, glue, adhesive, tackifiers, oils, lard, fat,suet, sugars, flour, molasses, gelatin, protein, albumin, mucilage,lignin, clay, bentonite, and other materials capable of holding thevarious materials, additives, agents and ingredients of the presentinventive compositions together in the form of a shaped body asdescribed herein.

Packaging Means

Suitable impermeable packaging means include, for example, but are notlimited to containers of glass, plastic, waxed paper, and othermaterials known in the art for storing and dispensing moisture and watersensitive materials. Other suitable impermeable packaging means includebut are not limited to containers or film composed of polyvinylchloride(PVC), cellulose, cellophane, thermoplastics, silicones, polyethylene,or polypropylene.

Suitable permeable packaging mean, include, for example, but are notlimited to constructs of mesh, fabric, screen, paper, perforated plasticor polymer containers, and other constructs known in the art for storingmaterials and yet providing for at least some degree of permeability towater, water vapor, and combinations thereof. Other suitable permeablepackaging means include bags composed of porous material, perforatedrigid containers, perforated bags made of impermeable materials,perforated flexible film, perforated bags, and semi-permeable film,permeable film coatings, or perforated impermeable film coatings.

EXAMPLES

The following examples illustrate suitable embodiments of the spoilagereducing compositions of the present invention and methods of use of thecompositions in combination with a bird feeder. The examples are forillustrative purposes only and are not meant to limit the scope of theinvention in any way.

Test 1

The first set of examples describe embodiments of spoilage reducingcompositions comprising a silica gel and bird feed blend dry mixed atseveral ratios and employed in a manner as indicated in Table 1. A rangeof silica gel and bird feed product ratios were prepared and tested todetermine the ability of the additive to trap moisture and inhibit theformation of mold in a feeder. Table 1 shows the effect of adding 0% to10% of silica gel to nyjer thistle bird feed. The formulas were made byadding increasing amounts of 1-2 mm silica gel to nyjer thistle seed asshown in Table 1 and mixing. The compositions were placed in atransparent plastic tube 6½ inches long by 1¼ wide and sealed at thebottom. This container represents the form of a typical tube feeder forthistle seed. As a torture test, 5 grams of water (representing rain ora leak) were added to the top of the test feeder on the first, andfourth days of the test. The test feeders were then inspected each dayand rated on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being mold free and 10 beingabundant mold. After 1 week, the samples without silica gel started tomold, while the several samples containing silica gel were mold-free.After 3 weeks, the samples without silica gel were extremelycontaminated with mold on the bottom of the container, while the sampleswith silica gel were essentially free of mold. TABLE 1 Mold Level %Silica % Thistle Results Mold Level Results Example # Gel Seed 1 week 3weeks Control A 0% 100%  4 10 (abundant mold) Control B 0% 100%  4 10  12% 98% 0 5 2 2% 98% 1 6 3 5% 95% 0 2 4 5% 95% 0 2 5 10%  90% 0 1 6 10% 90% 0 1 (essentially mold free)

Test 2

The second set of examples describe embodiments of spoilage reducingcompositions comprising a 100% Silica Gel product used as an additive toeliminate feed spoilage in a manner as indicated in Table 2. Table 2shows the effect of adding 0% to 10% silica gel in different feederdistributions into white millet bird feed. The formulas were made byadding increasing amounts of 1-2 mm silica gel to white millet seed asshown in Table 2. As shown on the chart, the silica gels in some sampleswere blended with seed, and the silica gels in some samples were placedat the bottom of the feeder. As in Test 1, the compositions were placedin a transparent plastic tube 6½ inches long by 1¼ wide and sealed atthe bottom. This container represents the form of a typical tube feederfor thistle seed. As a realistic test, 2 grams of water (representingrain or a leak) were added to the top of the test feeder on the first,fourth, eleventh, and nineteenth day of the test. The test feeders werethen inspected each day and rated on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 beingmold free and 10 being abundant mold. As Table 2 shows, the results aremuch better if the silica gel moisture absorbing material in placed atthe bottom of the feeder, rather than just mixed in the seed. This isbecause any added water quickly travels to the bottom of the feeder.TABLE 2 % Location of % Silica Millet Mold Level Sample # Silica Gel GelSeed Results Control C — 0% 100%  10 (abundant mold) Control D — 0%100%  10   7 Blended with Seed 2% 98% 3  8 Blended with Seed 2% 98% 3  9Blended with Seed 5% 95% 1 10 Blended with Seed 5% 95% 1 11 Blended withSeed 10%  90% 0 12 Blended with Seed 10%  90% 0 13 Bottom of Tube 2% 98%2 14 Bottom of Tube 2% 98% 2 15 Bottom of Tube 5% 95% 0 16 Bottom ofTube 5% 95% 0 17 Bottom of Tube 10%  90% 0 18 Bottom of Tube 10%  90% 0(mold free)

EXAMPLE 19

-   50% Silica Gel (Type C), 1-2 mm size-   25% Natural Zeolite, 1-2 mm size-   25% Polyacrylimide absorbing polymer, 1-2 mm size

EXAMPLE 20

-   75% Activated Alumina, granular 10×20 mesh-   5% Granular Activated Carbon, 20×40 mesh-   20% Perlite, 10×20 mesh    Example 20 was prepared by dry mixing the individual ingredients to    form a mixed granular composition.

EXAMPLE 21

-   75% Activated Alumina, granular 10×20 mesh-   5% Granular Activated Carbon, 20×40 mesh-   20% Perlite, 10×20 mesh    Example 21 was prepared by dry mixing the individual ingredients to    form a mixed granular composition.

EXAMPLE 22

-   1% sodium silicate solution (33% active solution)-   99% Silica gel (Type B), 2-4 mm    Preparation of Example 22 was as follows: Sodium silicate solution    is applied to the silica gel, and the mixture is pressed together to    form cylinders and then dried. Cylinders are placed in tube feeders    or other feeders as a moisture absorbing material.

1. A method for preventing spoilage of feed in a bird feeder, whichcomprises: (a) providing a bird feeder; (b) providing feed, and; (c)providing a spoilage reducing composition to said feeder, wherein saidsteps (a), (b), and (c) may be performed in any order or simultaneously.2. The method of claim 1, wherein said spoilage reducing compositioncomprises: (a) an effective amount of a moisture absorbing material; (b)optionally, a support material, and; (b) optionally, a functionaladditive.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein said feed comprises aplurality of seed.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein said moistureabsorbing material comprises a silica selected from the group consistingof silica gel, precipitated silica, amorphous silica, colloidal silica,pyrogenic silica, fumed silica, silica aerogel, and mixtures thereof. 5.The method of claim 2, wherein said moisture absorbing material is asilica comprised of silicon dioxide and/or hydrated silicon dioxide. 6.The method of claim 2, wherein said moisture absorbing materialcomprises a silica gel.
 7. The method of claim 2, wherein said moistureabsorbing material comprises an alumina selected from the groupconsisting of amorphous alumina, activated alumina, activated bauxite,gibbsite, bauxite, boehmite, pseudoboehmite, and mixtures thereof. 8.The method of claim 2, wherein said moisture absorbing materialcomprises an absorbent mineral selected from the group consisting ofnatural zeolite, synthetic zeolite, perlite, expanded perlite, volcanicash, pumice, tobermite, tuff, attapulgite, sepiolite, montmorillonite,smectite, bentonite, kaolinite, halloysite, hectorite, dicalciumsilicate, clay, activated clay, Fuller's earth, vermicullite, gypsum,shale, bassanite, diatomaceous earth, diatomite, and mixtures thereof.9. The method of claim 2, wherein said moisture absorbing material iscapable of absorbing at least 30 percent by weight of water in the formof liquid water, water vapor, and combinations thereof.
 10. The methodof claim 2, wherein said support material is selected from the groupconsisting of plaster of paris, paper, cellulosic webs, polymericfibrous webs, glass, plastic, wood, metal, minerals, ceramic, woodchips, alfalfa, bark, straw, synthetic foams, recycled materials,agricultural by-products, corn cobs, nut shells, activated carbon,absorbent polymers, polyacrylamide, modified starch, modified cellulose,and mixtures thereof.
 11. The method of claim 2, wherein said functionaladditive is selected from the group consisting of moisture indicatingagents, anti-microbial agents, anti-molding agents, colorants, odorabsorbers, feed spoilage indicators, and mixtures thereof.
 12. Themethod of claim 2, wherein said spoilage reducing composition comprisesa shaped body, wherein said shaped body comprises a form selected fromthe group consisting of a powder, granule, crystal, solid, gel, foam,disk, cube, cylinder, rod, ovoid, torus, sphere, donut, pyramid, prism,and combinations thereof.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein saidshaped body is of a size equal to or smaller than the size of said feed.14. A spoilage reducing composition for use in a bird feeder comprising:(a) an effective amount of a moisture absorbing material; (b)optionally, a support material, and; (b) optionally, a functionaladditive.
 15. The composition of claim 14, wherein said moistureabsorbing material comprises a silica selected from the group consistingof silica gel, precipitated silica, amorphous silica, colloidal silica,pyrogenic silica, fumed silica, silica aerogel, and mixtures thereof.16. The composition of claim 14, wherein said moisture absorbingmaterial is comprised of silicon dioxide and/or hydrated silicondioxide.
 17. The composition of claim 14, wherein said moistureabsorbing material comprises a silica gel.
 18. The composition of claim14, wherein said moisture absorbing material comprises an aluminaselected from the group consisting of amorphous alumina, activatedalumina, activated bauxite, gibbsite, bauxite, boehmite, pseudoboehmite,and mixtures thereof.
 19. The composition of claim 14, wherein saidmoisture absorbing material comprises an absorbent mineral selected fromthe group consisting of natural zeolite, synthetic zeolite, perlite,expanded perlite, volcanic ash, pumice, tobermite, tuff, attapulgite,sepiolite, montmorillonite, smectite, bentonite, kaolinite, halloysite,hectorite, dicalcium silicate, clay, activated clay, Fuller's earth,vermicullite, gypsum, shale, bassanite, diatomaceous earth, diatomite,and mixtures thereof.
 20. The composition of claim 14, wherein saidsupport material is selected from the group consisting of plaster ofparis, paper, cellulosic webs, polymeric fibrous webs, glass, plastic,wood, metal, minerals, ceramic, wood chips, alfalfa, bark, straw,synthetic foams, recycled materials, agricultural by-products, corncobs, nut shells, activated carbon, absorbent polymers, polyacrylamide,modified starch, modified cellulose, and mixtures thereof.
 21. Thecomposition of claim 14, wherein said spoilage reducing compositioncomprises a shaped body, wherein said shaped body comprises a formselected from the group consisting of a powder, granule, crystal, solid,gel, foam, disk, cube, cylinder, rod, ovoid, torus, sphere, donut,pyramid, prism, and combinations thereof.
 22. The composition of claim21, wherein said spoilage reducing composition is in the form of aplurality of said shaped bodies.
 23. The composition of claim 21,wherein said shaped body is of a size between 0.001 millimeters to 1meter.
 24. The composition of claim 14, wherein said functional additiveis selected from the group consisting of moisture indicating agents,anti-microbial agents, anti-molding agents, colorants, odor absorbers,feed spoilage indicators, and mixtures thereof.
 25. A kit for preventingspoilage of feed in a bird feeder comprising: (i) a spoilage reducingcomposition comprising: (a) an effective amount of a moisture absorbingmaterial; (b) optionally, a support material; and (c) optionally, afunctional additive; (ii) optionally, feed; and (iii) instructions forcombining said spoilage reducing composition with said feed.
 26. The kitof claim 25, wherein said feed comprises a plurality of seed.
 27. Thekit of claim 25, wherein said moisture absorbing material comprises asilica selected from the group consisting of silica gel, precipitatedsilica, amorphous silica, colloidal silica, pyrogenic silica, fumedsilica, silica aerogel, and mixtures thereof.
 28. The kit of claim 25,wherein said moisture absorbing material is a silica comprised ofsilicon dioxide and/or hydrated silicon dioxide.
 29. The kit of claim25, wherein said moisture absorbing material comprises a silica gel. 30.The kit of claim 25, wherein said moisture absorbing material comprisesan alumina selected from the group consisting of amorphous alumina,activated alumina, activated bauxite, gibbsite, bauxite, boehmite,pseudoboehmite, and mixtures thereof.
 31. The kit of claim 25, whereinsaid moisture absorbing material comprises an absorbent mineral selectedfrom the group consisting of natural zeolite, synthetic zeolite,perlite, expanded perlite, volcanic ash, pumice, tobermite, tuft,attapulgite, sepiolite, montmorillonite, smectite, bentonite, kaolinite,halloysite, hectorite, dicalcium silicate, clay, activated clay,Fuller's earth, vermicullite, gypsum, shale, bassanite, diatomaceousearth, diatomite, and mixtures thereof.
 32. The kit of claim 25, whereinsaid support material is selected from the group consisting of plasterof paris, paper, cellulosic webs, polymeric fibrous webs, glass,plastic, wood, metal, minerals, ceramic, wood chips, alfalfa, bark,straw, synthetic foams, recycled materials, agricultural by-products,corn cobs, nut shells, activated carbon, absorbent polymers,polyacrylamide, modified starch, modified cellulose, and mixturesthereof.
 33. The kit of claim 25, wherein said functional additive isselected from the group consisting of moisture indicating agents,anti-microbial agents, anti-molding agents, colorants, odor absorbers,feed spoilage indicators, and mixtures thereof.
 34. The kit of claim 25,wherein said spoilage reducing composition comprises a shaped body,wherein said shaped body comprises a geometric shape selected from thegroup consisting of a powder, granule, crystal, solid, gel, foam, disk,cube, cylinder, rod, ovoid, torus, sphere, donut, pyramid, prism, andcombinations thereof.
 35. The kit of claim 25, further comprising anouter packaging material that contains said spoilage reducingcomposition.
 36. The kit of claim 35, wherein said outer packagingmaterial comprises a reversibly sealable packaging means, wherein saidpackaging means is not permeable to water, water vapor, and combinationsthereof.
 37. The kit of claim 35, wherein said outer packaging materialcomprises a water-permeable packaging means, wherein said packagingmeans is permeable to water, water vapor, and combinations thereof. 38.The kit of claim 37, wherein said spoilage reducing composition isincorporated as part of the feeder.
 39. The kit of claim 25, whereinsaid silica comprises a shaped body, wherein said shaped body is of asize between 0.001 millimeters to about 1 meter.
 40. The kit of claim25, wherein said instructions comprise the steps selected from the groupconsisting of (1) the step of adding said spoilage reducing compositionto said feeder in an effective amount prior to addition of said birdfeed, (2) the step of adding said spoilage reducing compositionsimultaneously with said bird feed to said feeder, (3) the step ofadding said spoiling reducing composition to said feeder in an effectiveamount following addition of said bird feed, (4) the step of mixing saidspoilage reducing composition with bird feed prior to addition to thebird feeder, and combinations thereof.
 41. The kit of claim 25, whereinsaid effective amount of said spoilage reducing composition is betweenabout 0.05 weight percent to 50 weight percent of the weight of saidbird feed present in said feeder.